 |
KJV Hebrews 4
12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
13 Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.
14 Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession.
15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.
16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
Explanation
Verse 12 shows that the Word of God is always effective (or efficacious). That alone repudiates the claims of the Word and the Holy Spirit going their separate ways, making the Word "dead" at times and the Spirit fickle. The reason for many saying "Sovereign Lord" is to say God may be present or not during a sermon, a baptism or the Lord's Supper.
Verse 13 teaches that the Word is 100% discerning, which may be why so many shun the Word out of guilt or scorn, giving up the peace and joy from forgiveness through faith in the Savior.
Verse 14 portrays Jesus Christ as our great high priest, reason enough to avoid calling pastors "Father" and instituting a priesthood lacking in the New Testament but dominant in the minds of quasi-Romanists.
Verse 15 emphasizes the Two Natures of the Son of God, His human nature having experienced the trials, suffering, and pain of our human condition. The key point is Christ tempted just as we are, yet without sin - His divine nature. As the Word made flesh, He is the face and voice of God.
Verse 16 reveals that the Promised Messiah helps us come to the Lamb of God, slain for our sins, and receive grace through faith alone, and mercy.
